Grain-free kibble replaces cereals with plant-based sources such as potatoes or peas.

These plants do not contain taurine, so it is essential that the recipe be properly supplemented with synthetic taurine. The danger would be feeding poorly formulated kibble that does not contain enough animal protein or taurine supplementation. According to agronomist Karine Simard (Pattedeau Bio), the protein level should be around 35%.

Taurine?

Taurine is an essential amino acid for cats, meaning that their bodies cannot produce it in sufficient quantities, and it must absolutely be provided through diet.

It acts as a metabolic cofactor , as a natural antioxidant , and as a cellular regulator in several tissues (heart, eyes, brain, liver, etc.).

HEART

Taurine is essential for the proper functioning of the heart muscle. A deficiency causes dilated cardiomyopathy, a disease in which the heart weakens and enlarges, leading to shortness of breath, fatigue, and even sudden death. This condition was common in the 1980s before food manufacturers corrected taurine levels.

EYES

Taurine protects the retina against degeneration. A deficiency leads to irreversible retinopathy, resulting in progressive blindness. This is why all cats must receive sufficient taurine, especially cats fed grain-free kibble.

DIGESTION

Taurine is necessary for the synthesis of bile acids, which aid in the digestion of fats. A deficiency disrupts digestion (vomiting, loose stools, loss of appetite) and liver health. It also contributes to maintaining the intestinal lining and proper digestive motility.

NERVOUS SYSTEM

Taurine acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter: it helps regulate sleep, stress, and cognitive functions. It also plays a role in brain and vision development in kittens.

A deficiency results in:

• Food stagnates in the stomach.
• Bile acids are not being produced properly.
• The muscles of the digestive tract weaken.
• The intestinal wall becomes irritated and inflamed.

And your cat vomits.
Not because he is “sensitive”.
Not because of hairballs.
But because it lacks the essential nutrient to digest its food, namely, TAURINE!

If your cat shows any of these signs, it is probably deficient in taurine:

• Vomiting 2+ times a week
• Vomiting 1–3 hours after eating
• “Sensitive stomach”, several foods tried

• Lethargy, muscle weakness

• Loss of appetite, weight loss

• Impaired vision, dilated pupils

• Palpitations, heart murmur

• Growth retardation or infertility

Vomiting is not the disease.
This is the warning sign.

The safe dosage of taurine supplement for an adult cat generally ranges from 200 to 500 mg per day, depending on weight, age, and physiological state (gestation, lactation, etc.). For a neutered adult cat of average weight, most veterinarians recommend approximately 250 to 500 mg daily.

Natural sources of taurine: meat, offal (liver, heart), fish, seafood.

Average daily requirements: approximately 250–500 mg/kg of dry food, according to FEDIAF and AAFCO recommendations.

High-quality commercial kibble or wet food normally contains enough of it, but some formulations (grain-free, rich in legumes, low in meat) can reduce its absorption.

Be sure to check the ingredients of your cat's kibble if your cat is experiencing repeated vomiting!